knew immediately when I first took the knives out of the box that they were special.  I have never held a knife with such heft and feeling of quality.  The knife set is also very pleasing on the eyes as well.  Following the directions to place my index finger and thumb directly on the heel of the blade has really worked well and makes the knives very comfortable to use.  I am so happy that I read the reviews and to a leap of faith to purchase the most expensive knife set of my life.  I can honestly say now that this knife set is well worth the price in quality.  I feel it was an excellent investment in quality cutlery.